Starting January 1, 2026, retailers in California must charge consumers a fee of 1.5% (capped at $15) on the retail sales price of covered battery-embedded (CBE) products to fund a recycling program. This fee is mandated by SB 1215.
Background:
CBE products contain batteries that cannot be easily removed by the user with common household tools. This excludes products with video displays larger than 4 inches diagonally and standalone batteries. Proposed regulations further clarify the definition of "commonly used household tools" which will impact what qualifies as a covered CBE product.
Starting January 1, 2026, retailers must begin charging the CBE Waste Recycling Fee at point of sale. The receipts must separately identify and state the fee amount. If the retailer pays the fee on behalf of the consumer, the receipt must expressly state this.
On or before April 30, 2026, the collected fees must be remitted to the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA). The portal to register with CDFTA is open. The fee cannot be included in sales or use tax calculations. Retailers may retain 3% of fees collected to cover costs.
Additional Information:
SB 1215
Regulations for implementing CBE recycling Fee
Guidance on CDTFA’s website
Proposed regulations for defining scope of CBE products
Bureau Veritas will monitor for any additional updates on this topic.
How Does This Impact You? Contact Us to Discuss:
If you have any comments and/or questions, please contact your customer service representative or email: info@us.bureauveritas.com
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